Proven Success

Our Host Homes are built on The Network’s “Mentor Model” which has been successful for more than 30 years. Watch our Host Home video to see how we’re building relationships and enhancing lives across the state and the country.

Desiree’s Got a New Style

Friends, teachers and family are a few of the ways Desiree describes her Mentors, Aida and Daryl Owens, a couple who have opened their home and their hearts to help Desiree live life to the fullest. The Owens had worked at Vineland Developmental Center since they were teenagers. Daryl, the former grounds keeper, is now retired. But if you pass by Vineland’s kitchen you’ll still find Aida serving up lots of food and smiles to the residents.

Throughout their 25 plus years at Vineland, the Owens had come to know and love the residents, their families and fellow staff members. After Daryl retired and as they moved toward the next chapter of their lives, they searched for ways to continue making a difference in the lives of people with developmental disabilities.

That’s when they found New Jersey MENTOR’s Host Home program, a successful community living option that offers individualized support in private family homes provided by caring Host Home providers known as Mentors.

Five years ago, the Owens met Desiree while providing respite for other Mentors. She was a young woman with developmental disabilities who had a difficult time growing up. She had very low self-esteem and struggled to making friends, being responsible and managing her own personal care and hygiene.

When Desiree came to stay with the Owens, she had little respect for herself and others, but after a few short weekends, she was already showing signs of improvement. She was listening more, learning appropriate behaviors and becoming more confident. Desiree’s quick progress inspired the Owens, who permanently welcomed Desiree into their home—and into their family.

Their approach was simple: Offer her a place to be herself, opportunities to be more independent and constant support and encouragement! The entire Owens family became role models for Desiree. They made her feel comfortable so she could learn new skills, such as cooking, cleaning and picking out her own clothes. Today Desiree is a mature and happy young woman who is able to manage her own medication and travel independently in the community. She excels in her day program, where she works part-time and earns her own income. Most importantly, Desiree’s self-esteem has greatly improved and she is enjoying making new friends and spending time with her Mentor family.